Studies show that four in every ten Australians suffer from inadequate sleep(1). And if you're not getting enough sleep, it's time to do something about it. A sleep study is a great way to find out what's keeping you from getting the rest you need.
This brings us to the question: how much does a sleep study cost in Australia? Not to worry, we've got you covered.
This article will uncover everything you need to know about sleep studies in Australia! We'll discuss how much they cost, what they entail, and how to get started. So read on for all the information you need!
Key Takeaways
- There are different types of sleep studies, including in-lab and home tests, which means you can always choose something that is more convenient for you.
- The sleep study cost will depend on the city you’re in. In Sydney, sleep studies can fall anywhere between $150 and $2,000.
- The pre-study preparation process isn’t complicated. You need to avoid alcohol and caffeine before the test. You might also have to pause taking certain medications, so make sure to talk to your doctor beforehand.
How much does a sleep study cost in Australia?
In-lab
Sleep studies conducted in a hospital or sleep laboratory will typically cost between $500 and $1000 (with an average price being around $700 in most locations), which qualifies for Medicare funding. This cost usually covers the overnight stay, as well as the use of the sleep laboratory facilities and equipment.
Also, the cost is heavily influenced by several factors. These include the type of sleep study, location, the length of the study, and whether you have private health insurance.
Home-based
Home-based sleep studies are a more affordable option, costing between $150 and $400, which some medical insurance policies can also cover. This is a much more reasonably-priced option compared to in-lab tests (2). The average cost of home sleep tests is $200 in most Australian cities.
To get started with a home-based sleep study, you will need to consult with a sleep specialist. They will assess your sleep needs and recommend the best course of action. Some sleep studies may also include a consultation with a sleep specialist.
Sleep Study Cost Depending on City
The cost of a sleep study will also differ depending on which city you live in. Here are the costs of a sleep study in some major Australian cities:
- Sleep Study Sydney Cost - $150-400 for a home test and up to $2,000 in a lab;
- Sleep Study Melbourne Cost - $200-400 for a home study and up to $1,500 in a lab;
- Sleep Study Perth Cost - $150 to $1,000.
As you can see, the cost can vary depending on several factors. However, the good news is that Medicare covers a portion of the cost of sleep studies in Australia. So be sure to check with your insurance provider to see if you are eligible!
Sleep Apnea Test Cost
Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that occurs when a person stops breathing during sleep. If you think you may have sleep apnea, it is important to get tested. The cost of a sleep apnea test can range from $200 to $1000. The average price in most locations across Australia is around $500.
If you have sleep apnea, it is important to get treatment. Untreated sleep apnea can lead to serious health problems, such as heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure.
What is a Sleep Study, and What are its Benefits?
A sleep study, also called polysomnography, is a non-invasive test that helps doctors diagnose and treat sleep disorders (3). Sleep studies are usually conducted overnight in a sleep laboratory or hospital. It can also be done at home with a portable sleep monitor.
During a sleep study, your doctor will monitor vital signs and breathing patterns while you sleep. This information helps doctors identify sleep disorders such as insomnia, sleep apnea, and narcolepsy. Sleep studies can also be used to determine the cause of daytime sleepiness.
There are many benefits to getting a sleep study. Sleep studies can improve your quality of life by helping you get the treatment you need to get a good night's sleep. For instance, a sleep study can help determine the cause of your pain and recommend the best treatment for patients who sleep with lower back pain and sciatica.
They can also help you avoid the risks associated with sleep disorders, such as heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure.
What Should You Expect from a Sleep Study Appointment?
During a sleep study, you will be connected to equipment that monitors your vital signs and breathing patterns. You will be asked to sleep for at least six hours so that the doctors can assess your sleep patterns.
After the sleep study is complete, the doctor will review the results and make recommendations based on their findings. These recommendations may include changes to your sleep habits or lifestyle and medication or other treatment options.
A sleep study aims to improve your quality of life by helping you get the treatment you need to get a good night's sleep. With the right treatment, you can avoid the risks associated with sleep disorders and enjoy all the benefits of a good night's rest!
Also read: Sleeping on the Floor: Is It Good or Bad for You?
Sleep Study Preparation Tips
Now that you know how much a sleep study costs in Australia, as well as what to expect from the appointment, here are some tips to help you prepare for your sleep study:
- Talk to your doctor about any medications you are taking that could affect your sleep.
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol before your sleep study.
- Follow any instructions you are given about preparing for the sleep study.
- Make sure you get a good night's sleep before your sleep study to be well-rested.
FAQs
How much does a sleep study cost in Australia?
The cost of a sleep study will differ depending on where you have it done. In-lab sleep studies conducted in a hospital or sleep laboratory will typically cost between $500 and $1000. Home-based sleep studies are more affordable, costing between $200 and $400.
Would Medicare cover my sleep study cost?
Patients with a valid Medicare card may have a sleep study covered in full or in part by Medicare. The out-of-pocket expenses would differ depending on which state you live in, whether the sleep study is conducted in-lab or at home, and other individual factors.
Conclusion
Sleep studies are an important part of diagnosing and treating sleep disorders. The cost of a sleep study will vary depending on the type of study, where it is conducted, and how many nights are required. It is important to discuss the cost of a sleep study with your doctor to ensure that it is the right decision for you. We hope this article has provided you with valuable information about sleep studies in Australia.
If you have any questions about sleep study cost with Medicare in Australia, please feel free to leave them in the comments below.
References:
- Insufficient sleep - Retrieved from: https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/House/Health_Aged_Care_and_Sport/SleepHealthAwareness/Report/section?id=committees%2Freportrep%2F024220%2F26953#:~:text=Yet%2C%20as%20the%20Royal%20Australasian,be%20placed%20on%20sleep%20health.
- Julie Corliss (Aug 21, 2020). Worried about sleep apnea? Home-based testing is now the norm. Retrieved from https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/worried-about-sleep-apnea-home-based-testing-is-now-the-norm-2020082120783
- UNC School of Medicine (n.d.) What to Expect at Your Sleep Study. Retrieved from https://www.med.unc.edu/neurology/divisions/sleep-1/frequently-asked-questions/what-to-expect-at-your-sleep-study/
Allana Wass is the Co-Founder and Editor-in-chief at Comfybeddy. She was trained at the Spencer Institute to become a Certified Sleep Science Coach and has been featured in VeryWellMind, U.S. News, and Bustle. She has tested over 50 sleep products, which include mattresses, mattress toppers, and pillows. She has spent countless hours researching the mattress industry and learning about its cutting-edge technology for over four years, helping you improve your sleep. With her wealth of experience, she thoroughly reviews mattresses and other sleep products to give the best recommendations for each kind of sleeper.